Domestically Sourced RARE EARTH MAGNETS FOR sUAS
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Department of the Army's Tobyhanna Army Depot (TYAD) is conducting market research through a Request for Information (RFI) to identify American companies capable of manufacturing and supplying domestically sourced rare earth magnets for Brushless Direct Current (BLDC) motors used in small uncrewed aircraft systems (sUAS). This RFI is for informational purposes only and is not a solicitation. Responses are due by 1:00 p.m. EDT on February 11, 2026.
Scope of Work
TYAD seeks information on capabilities to provide specific commercial-grade rare earth magnets. Key requirements include:
- Material Type: Neodymium Magnet Grade N52SH.
- Coating: Triple-layer Nickel-Copper-Nickel (Ni-Cu-Ni) plating for corrosion resistance.
- Magnetization: Radially magnetized arc segments for N-S-N-S assembly.
- Dimensions: Specific dimensions are requested for magnets used in 3115, 2807, and 2407 BLDC motors, with 14 pieces required per motor.
- Sourcing: All materials, including raw rare earth materials, must not be sourced from prohibited foreign countries (e.g., China, Russia, Iran, North Korea). Respondents must demonstrate compliance with the Berry Amendment (10 U.S.C. 2533a) as implemented by DFARS 252.225-7008 and 252.225-7009 regarding specialty metals.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Request for Information (RFI)
- Set-Aside: None specified; market research may lead to small business set-asides (in full or in part) or full and open competition. The Government anticipates the possibility of making multiple awards.
- Response Due: February 11, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. EDT
- Published: February 4, 2026
- Place of Performance: Tobyhanna, PA
Submission Requirements
Interested businesses should submit a brief capabilities statement package (maximum ten 8.5 x 11-inch pages, 10-point font minimum, bullet format). The submission must include:
- Organization name, address, Points of Contact (POCs), email, FAX, website, and type of ownership.
- Tailored capability statements with supporting documentation.
- Details on administrative and management structure if subcontracting/teaming. Submissions must be electronic (Microsoft Word or PDF) and emailed to nicholas.m.paras.civ@army.mil and christopher.k.volch.civ@army.mil. The email subject line and all enclosed documents must reference the synopsis number and title.
Additional Notes
This RFI is for market research only and does not constitute a solicitation or a commitment by the Government to award a contract. Responses are strictly voluntary, and no funds are available for preparation. Do not submit classified material.